Arbovirology

Climate change is increasing global vulnerability to mosquito-borne diseases. We focus on intervention strategies that reduce mosquito-borne viruses in at-risk communities.

Group Heads

Dr Johanna Fraser

About

We focus on controlling mosquito-borne viruses with varied interventions. These include antiviral therapeutics that can protect against or treat human infections by viruses such as dengue. We also research Wolbachia, an insect symbiotic bacterium that can persistently infect mosquito species, reducing their ability to transmit human pathogenic viruses.

The past decade saw significant advances towards managing dengue, the most prevalent mosquito-borne virus.

For example:

the first dengue therapeutics for patient use may soon be available after two antiviral therapeutics demonstrated efficacy in Phase 2 clinical trials

Wolbachia has become an effective biocontrol tool to reduce dengue virus transmission when stably introduced into Aedes aegypti mosquito populations (the dengue virus’s primary vector).

We aim to understand how viruses may adapt to emerging interventions. We also explore how applying one intervention may change another’s effectiveness.

We apply molecular technologies including high resolution imaging, transcriptomics, proteomics and deep sequencing. We use these to probe how emerging interventions modify interactions between viruses and host cells. Knowledge gained helps support the application and longevity of these interventions.

We collaborate with external partners in Australia including the World Mosquito Program, Monash University, University of Melbourne, Flinders University and La Trobe University.

News and features

Australia's frontline defence against chikungunya

While the outbreak of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus in China raises the prospect of more widespread transmission, scientific research has provided Australia with a special biological line of defence.